HONG KONG — Celebrated singer Hana Kuk (菊梓喬) marked her upcoming 39th birthday a week early, hosting a lively celebration last Friday with approximately 100 dedicated fans. The event served as a moment of reflection for the pop star, who candidly discussed her journey as an independent artist, her perspectives on romance, and her aspirations for the future.
Kuk, whose actual birthday falls on Monday, November 24th, shared a lighthearted perspective on reaching the final year of her thirties. “This is my last year in the thirties bracket,” she quipped. “After this, I’ll consider myself ‘twenty-something plus a decade.’” The artist noted that despite enduring professional and personal challenges this year, she feels fortunate that “everything has remained relatively smooth.” She also explained the unusual timing of the event, stating that after a five-year hiatus from birthday parties, she will spend her actual birthday working in Shaoguan, China.
Prioritizing Health and Financial Independence
When asked about her birthday wishes, Kuk highlighted a desire for sustained well-being, happiness, eternal youth, and increased income. The topic of marriage led to a frank discussion about her views on relationships. Referencing the traditional expectation of marrying before 30, she stated, “I’ve passed that milestone. Now, I have no immediate thoughts [on marriage]; I feel like I can’t even catch the back end of the possibility.”
Kuk emphasized the importance of financial independence before pursuing a public relationship. “I need to earn money first,” she insisted. “I lack the capital. I need financial stability to be able to care for a partner.” The singer expressed discomfort with the notion of being fully supported, adding that she would find it “stressful” if someone provided for all her needs. This perspective stems from a lifelong habit of relying on herself, compounded by past negative experiences. “I grew up unaccustomed to being taken care of,” she explained, “and having previously encountered five unreliable partners, I was genuinely scared off. I will only go public with a relationship when I know I can offer happiness” to another person.
When pressed about her current relationship status, Kuk remained evasive, saying only, “I’m not rushing into anything. I’m very happy now, and I don’t want to affect anyone else.” She noted that the individual frequently mentioned in the media is a colleague and she wished to avoid any undue professional friction.
A Preference for Cash Over Gifts
The conversation briefly turned to rumors linking her to fellow entertainer Poki Ng (吳保錡), who recently sang an a capella birthday song to her on social media. Kuk remained playful, confessing, “That’s funny? I hadn’t seen it.” She subtly chastised the lack of a complementary present. “It’s actually quite strange to sing a birthday song but not send a gift.”
Asked about her ideal present, Kuk was decisive: cash. “Money is perfect,” she stated, “because he might not know what I like, and I don’t want him to waste money. He might as well just give me the funds so I can buy it myself.”
Kuk also revealed the most awkward gift she ever received: a fan-club souvenir from another female singer, either Gin Lee or Vincy Chan. “I truly didn’t want that gift,” she recalled, though she admitted she wasn’t angry. Looking ahead, Kuk confirmed the difficulties of navigating her first year as an independent artist but shared positive news: she has received new material, with her next single slated for release early next year.